Professor Melvin Tolson, a brilliant but volatile debate team coach, uses the power of words to shape a group of underdog students from a small African American college in the deep south into a historically elite debate team. A controversial figure, Professor Tolson challenged the social mores of the time and was under constant fire for his unconventional and ferocious teaching methods as well as his radical political views. In their pursuit for excellence, Tolson''s debate team receives a groundbreaking invitation to debate Harvard University ''s championship team.
On the surface this film is about an inspiring professor and the lengths he is willing to go in order to properly teach/prepare a select few for the rigors of the debate team. But at the heart of the film is a courageous story about the civil rights movement. Professor Tolson very vividly explains to the students how slave owners would keep slaves physically strong but mentally weak. This is the core of his teachings. After all, if the mind is strong then no one can enslave you.
This movie is just absolutely packed with talent. Denzel Washington is so obviously one of the best actors of our time. He is a joy to watch and has a knack for finding great roles. His true portrayal of Melvin Tolson is so passionate and heartfelt. Not to mention the incredibly fluid and articulate dialogue he continually gives throughout the entire film. He is completely amazing.
Acting opposite of Denzel Washington is Forest Whitaker. Forest plays an excellent character in the film. He is a strong southern minister who struggles with his personal demons when dealing with racism as well as the daily fears of raising his only son in such a volatile environment. Absolutely every character in this film has their own personal demon’s that they struggle with. and demon’s. The characters are all set up so brilliantly and there is not a single person in this film that should not be commended on his or her performance. Never mind that the acting is good. The story is a great one. The dialogue is brilliant throughout the film and the passion that they have when delivering their arguments are inspiring. It is a remarkable film with incredible acting. What else do you want?
